Attempt at ‘Holy Conversation’ also brings pain

An attempt by General Conference to have a “holy conversation” about sexuality instead brought pain to gay, bisexual, lesbian, and transgender people, a delegate said Thursday evening.

Speaking on a point of personal privilege at the end of the business session, Mark Miller, a lay delegate from the Greater New Jersey Annual (regional) Conference, said the planned small-group discussion a day earlier “failed” because of a lack of leadership and oversight.

“Yesterday, the church did us harm, but when we are hurt, the church is hurt,” he said, adding that they felt bullied during the process.

A small group of people gathered around him in solidarity, but when Miller called for more to join them, Bishop Robert Hayes, Jr., who was presiding, admonished him, saying it “was not the time or the place” for such a demonstration.

The bishop agreed that not all had gone well yesterday, but noted there had been “a sincere attempt” at holy conferencing.

Miller asked the bishop to pray for them and he did.


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
Social Concerns
The Rev. Christopher P. Momany. Photo by Kristen Schell.

Troubled times call for revival of personalism

We must advocate for human dignity and resist policies that destroy the personhood of others, writes the Rev. Dr. Christopher P. Momany.
General Church
The Rev. Dr. Luan-Vu “Lui” Tran. Photo courtesy of author.

Trust clause stands as connectional cornerstone

The clause has played a pivotal role in preserving the United Methodist Church’s unity.
Local Church
Hannah Buchanan. Photo courtesy of the author.

United Methodist pastor: I believe Jesus weeps with us

Hannah Buchanan, a pastor at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, writes about grief and serving in a community that has been “shaken to its core” by deadly flooding.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved